Moon Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Moon Reservoir, also known as Silver Creek Dam, is a private water resource located in Harney, Oregon.
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Summary
Built in 1969, this Earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 5650 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 0.9 square miles and has a maximum discharge rate of 974 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Moon Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential, the dam undergoes inspections every three years, with the last assessment conducted in June 2019. While the condition assessment is not currently rated, the reservoir remains a vital resource for water supply and management in the region.
Situated in a remote area with no downstream settlements, Moon Reservoir plays a crucial role in sustaining the surrounding agricultural activities. Its strategic location on Silver Creek, along with its substantial storage capacity and discharge capability, highlights its importance in supporting irrigation needs and water resource management in Harney County, Oregon. Moon Reservoir stands as a testament to the essential role of private water infrastructure in addressing the challenges of water scarcity and climate variability in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1140 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
SILVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
5650 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Moon Reservoir